· 2026-07-13

The Detroit Lions enter 2026 with Jared Goff—who’s outpaced his QB16 ADP for four straight seasons—still the safest QB10 bet in fantasy football, while Jameson Williams’ 10.9 PPR average last year now ranks him as a bust. With the Lions at 9-8 in the NFC after a W1 streak, fantasy managers face tough choices.
Goff has finished as QB10, QB7, QB6, and QB8 over the past four seasons, fifth in total fantasy scoring behind only Allen, Hurts, Mahomes, and Jackson. His consistency—healthy since 2021—makes him a lock for another top-10 finish, even if his ceiling isn’t elite. Drew Petzing’s return as offensive coordinator in 2026 should help.
Williams’ 10.9 PPR average last year dropped him from top-10 WR territory to borderline top-40. That’s the difference between Nico Collins and Keenan Allen. With no clear WR2 behind Amon-Ra St. Brown, Williams’ role—and production—is unlikely to rebound.
The Lions’ 9-8 record (9th in the NFC) and upcoming matchup against the New Orleans Saints on September 13 show they’re far from a lock. Goff’s durability and Petzing’s offense could still push him to QB10, but Williams’ decline leaves fantasy managers scrambling for WR depth.
The offense’s bounce-back potential hinges on Goff’s health and the return of elite weapons like St. Brown. If the secondary stabilizes, the Lions could surprise in the NFC North. But with Jared Renfro and Aidan Hutchinson still developing, the defense remains a question mark.